Choose two different Christian denominations - Select and explain the main features of their place of worship and compare and contrast the ways in which the features are used in worship.
Skill 1: Choose two different Christian denominations. Select and explain the main features of their place of worship and compare and contrast the ways in which the features are used in worship.
In this essay I will be identifying the main features of the Baptist and Roman Catholic denominations and how they use their main features in worship. I will also distinguish what these two denominations have in common and in difference. I will finally say if their similarities are less or more than their differences.
The main similarities between the two denominations are that both Baptist and Roman Catholic churches proclaim the Word of God by the use of the Holy Bible. In both denominations the bible is read on the lectern in order for the word of god to be heard clearly. On the whole both dominations believe in the same God and the life of Jesus Christ the Son of God.
Another main feature that both Baptist and the Roman Catholic denominations share in common is the use of the Pulpit. Here the preacher explains the word of god to all the people attending.
The Pulpit in the Baptist church has a greater meaning and is regarded as the central point because the main act of worship in Baptist churches is based on the Bible.
The main differences between the two denominations are that in the Roman Catholic places of worship, the mass takes place at the alter. This is where the priest consecrates the bread and wine. It is known as the focal point of the church.
The altar is also a table. Through the process of celebrating the Holy Communion Catholics believe that Jesus is present when they are celebrating. This is known as Transubstantiation. In contrast, the Baptist church uses a regular table rather than an alter. This is because they use the table for other purposes, such as meetings and etc because the table to them is not sacred and so important.
The Roman Catholic Church uses an elaborate container to keep the consecrated host in. This is then covered with a cloth. The Baptist church on the other hand, does not practice the liturgy of the Eucharist and so do not have a Tabernacle.
Both the Roman Catholic and Baptist Church use the cross as a symbol of salvation. The Roman Catholic Church has the figure of Jesus on the cross in order to aid them reflect the suffering and pain that Jesus went through for them. The Baptist church has only a plain cross.
The Roman Catholic Church has a confessional box in order for the people attending worship to be able to confess their sins in the Sacrament of Confession. The Baptist Church on the other hand, does not have a Sacrament of Confession and therefore it does not have a confessional box.
In the Roman Catholic Church incense is used during the Eucharist to symbolise the prayers of the people travelling up towards God, the Baptist Church does not use incense.
The Roman Catholic Church uses Bells to draw all the attention during the important parts of the Mass such as start of mass and at consecration. The Baptist Church does not use any bells.